For the first time, Diwali became an official school holiday for New York City schools

new york: in a historic move, diwali was celebrated as an official school holiday in new york city, allowing over 1.1 million students to observe the festival of lights.diwali had been declared a school holiday for new york city public schools beginning this year. last year, new york state governor kathy hochul signed legislation making diwali a school holiday for the city's public schools.new york city schools remained closed on november 1 in celebration of diwali.deputy commissioner for new york city's mayor's office for international affairs, dilip chauhan, said that diwali being celebrated as an official school holiday in new york city for the first time was a “milestone that celebrated our city's diversity and the tireless efforts of our community and leaders.”“with 1.1 million students able to observe this day, diwali became a true symbol of unity—a celebration of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance,” chauhan told pti.he noted that, for the diaspora, this holiday held deep meaning, bringing families, friends, and neighbors together in peace and joy, strengthening the bonds that make new york one of the world's most inclusive cities.“of course, there were challenges, especially balancing the required instructional days. we had to make thoughtful adjustments to ensure all communities felt respected and supported,” he added.underscoring that diwali "reminded us of the unique diversity" in the city, chauhan stated the festival “spoke to our shared values of harmony and connection. this holiday united us, fostering a stronger, more inclusive city—a city that thrives on every voice.”diwali celebrations had begun across the city and country with several community organizations commemorating the festival through special events.the iconic empire state building in the city was illuminated in hues of orange to celebrate diwali. leading diaspora organization, the federation of indian associations (fia) new york-new jersey-connecticut-new england, in partnership with empire state realty, commemorated diwali by illuminating the empire state building.